The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Richard G. Aubel (NSN: 0-283189), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in operations against the Japanese Fleet on 25 October 1944, in the Philippine Sea. As a member of a flight of nine dive bombers, he participated in a coordinated attack against enemy cruisers, which in spite of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, resulted in damaging hits on a heavy cruiser and a light cruiser. His skill and courage in carrying out with perfect timing the pre-arranged plan was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.